We are living in uncertain times, and it is okay to acknowledge feelings of grief and loss. However, if you are a person of faith, you can find comfort in turning to these specific scripture verses. While grief is often associated with the death of a loved one, you can experience the pain of loss in a variety of circumstances. Particularly now, in the midst of this pandemic, grief is quickly becoming commonplace. Not only are people losing others they care about due to the virus but they are losing experiences, jobs, relationships, and even just the sense of normalcy.
Nothing surprises the Lord. You can find verses on grief throughout the Bible because God knows the suffering of his people and the ache of loss. He wants to provide comfort.
With that in mind, let’s look at a few key verses regarding grief that can help to inspire you and carry you through these darker times.
John 16:22
“So with you: Now is your time of grief, but I will see you again and you will rejoice, and no one will take away your joy.”
This verse in the book of John is actually something Jesus said to his disciples as he knew his time on the cross was drawing near. You can find comfort in this particular verse in a few ways.
First, all of us can find joy in the fact that we serve a risen Savior. Christ’s words ring true to us today just as they did to his followers then. He compassionately tried to prepare his followers for a loss he knew would be confusing and overwhelming to them. Most of them did not understand what was about to happen. When you feel overwhelmed and struggle to make sense of what is happening, it helps to remember His compassionate all-knowing understanding and support is there for us.
Next, you can also look at this verse in a more modern sense. The pain of losing someone or something can cause grief now. But it will not last forever. If someone you love passes away, you are assured you will see them again and live together for eternity! If you’ve lost a job, relationships, or your sense of normalcy, take comfort in knowing that it isn’t forever. Things will return to a more balanced state, and this verse can carry you through.
Philippians 4:13
“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”
This is one of the most popular and well-known verses in the Bible for good reason. It can be applied to a variety of settings and situations, including the experience of grief.
When you are feeling low, sad, or even depressed over a loss, you can find your strength and hope in Christ. It can be exactly what you need to get up and keep moving forward.
Psalm 34:18
“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”
When you are going through the grieving process, it’s easy to feel like you’re completely alone. Unfortunately, in this time of social distancing and quarantining, you might already be struggling with loneliness. If you’re grieving on top of that, you could be at a greater risk of developing symptoms of anxiety or depression.
If you are a follow of Christ, you can have faith that you’re not alone. Even in your darkest, lowest moments when it feels as though you don’t have anyone, God is still there. There are so many additional verses in the Bible about His comforting presence. But, rely on this one to remind yourself that even when you are feeling brokenhearted, you can be comforted by His presence and restorative power.
This pandemic has impacted almost everyone in some way. It has triggered a lot of fear in people. So much uncertainty and loss are fueling grief that seems to be everywhere. But, by turning to the Word instead of the world, you can find inspiration and work through your grief in a healthy, hopeful way. Please read more about coping with grief and life transition counseling and keep these verses in mind as you are comforted by His loving hand.
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If you’re feeling like you need help identifying how your faith supports your relationships, please contact me. Together, we can find ways for you to live out your true values and gain more peace and life satisfaction.
I know how stressful and demanding it can be to make changes in your life, but you don’t have to figure it out on your own. Some of the benefits of individual therapy include:
- Having a safe, confidential space to work through life’s struggles
- Speaking openly with a highly-trained professional
- Learning to be curious about oneself and become more mindful about your choices
- Identifying relationship patterns that are helpful, or existing patterns that are interfering with your growth and wellbeing.
- I offer online therapy (video conference style of therapy), which provides an increased level of comfort as you could meet with me from the privacy and comfort of your own home or other location.
You can request a specific appointment time that fits your schedule. Once confirmed, you can complete all New Patient Intake paperwork online as well.
*** The tips offered in this article are for general information and should not be considered medical or psychological advice. For more personalized recommendations appropriate to your individual situation, please contact us or obtain professional guidance.
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